Hamilton leaving Clark County Food Bank following launch of Vision Center

VANCOUVER – After more than 12 years of service as president of Clark County Food Bank (CCFB), Alan Hamilton has announced his intention to leave the Food Bank this fall, having achieved the goals he set, particularly with the launch of the new Vision Center.

CCFB Board Chair Elson Strahan noted that “Alan Hamilton’s leadership guided the tremendous growth and development of CCFB over the years, in spite of the challenges of COVID and the unfortunate continued growth of food insecurity in our community. We deeply appreciate Alan’s ongoing dedication to the mission of the food bank and our community.”

During Hamilton’s tenure, Clark County Food Bank has grown to now manage over 8 million pounds of food each year, which is equivalent to 6.7 million meals for the more than 135,000 individuals served. This is accomplished with over 50 nonprofit partner agencies at more than 100 distribution sites, along with food bank led programs throughout Clark County.

“I am so very proud of all we have accomplished at CCFB, made possible through the incredible generosity of our donors, the many hours donated by more than 4,000 volunteers, and a wonderful, dedicated staff. It has truly been a privilege,” stated Hamilton following his announcement.

In addition to Hamilton successfully leading CCFB over the years, he has capped this exceptional record with the launch of the Vision Center, which will be added to CCFB area campus and anticipated to be opened in July.

“I am extremely excited to see the Vision Center become a reality. The extra capacity will allow for creative food sourcing and warehousing, a best practices shopping-style food pantry and community space,” continued Hamilton. “However, I am most pleased that it will serve as a community resource and collaborative space for years to come, helping us address the many complex root causes of hunger.”

Hamilton will continue to work with CCFB in the months ahead as the CCFB Board of Directors initiates a national search for Hamilton’s successor.

In a letter to Clark County Today published on June 18, area resident Greg Flakus raised concerns over Hamilton’s salary at the CCFB. Flakus cited the organization’s Form 999, which reports income and expenses, that indicated Hamilton earns $197,500 in salary per year and $30,000 in deferred compensation.

“As one of those who led the campaign to build the current distribution center, this compensation should be made known to all donors and also explained,’’ Flakus wrote. “By reference, both the director of the Oregon Food Bank and Northwest Harvest earn less than the president of this food bank. 

“I would hope the board members would justify this compensation that seems very high for a nonprofit in our region,’’ Flakus concluded.